SCHOOLCHILDREN marked World Book Day by meeting one of the rising stars of children's fiction.

In a specially organised event at Winsford Library, youngsters from Over Hall and High Street primary schools in the town took part in a question and answer session with Canadian author Matthew Skelton.

Two years ago, Matthew was homeless with nothing to his name but a couple of suitcases, a PhD from Oxford University and the fruit of his labours - an unpublished manuscript.

But his critically acclaimed debut novel, Endymion Spring, was published last year and today he is loved by children and adults alike.

Set both in present-day Oxford and 15th century Germany, Endymion Spring tells the story of a young boy who discovers a mysterious, blank book on the dusty shelves of an Oxford library.

He later realises this ancient book possesses a powerful magic, a magic which men have cheated and killed for - a magic which he must protect.

'It's aimed at children although adults, including myself, have read and greatly enjoyed it,' said librarian Ian Anstice. 'Matthew has often been compared with JK Rowling - and not just by his publishers.

'He talked about how he wrote Endymion Spring and his reasons for becoming a writer. The kids asked him very good questions about his book and the process of writing.

'My thanks to the teachers at Over Hall and High Street schools who helped to make the day such a success. It was a fantastic afternoon and I look forward to similar events being held here in the future.'

Matthew's visit came after Winsford Library won a competition, courtesy of Ian's artistic talents.

He said: 'The book has a dragon theme and I like drawing dragons - I drew one on the entry form which caught the eye of whoever was picking the winners.'